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Sam Reilly #16
The Hunt for Excalibur
On March 11, 2011, the Japanese fishing trawler, Hoshi Maru accidentally hauled up something deadly into its live-fish hold. The crew, having discovered their mistake, raced toward the harbor in the hope that they might survive.
They never made it.
Presumed sunk by the tsunami that ravaged the coastline of Japan, its crew were declared dead.
Seven years later, the shipwreck washed up on Cannon Beach, Oregon. By the time the US Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived to investigate, people in the nearby towns had started to die in terrifying and inexplicable ways.
Sam Reilly will need to discover what really happened on board the Hoshi Maru – and why all clues point to the Legend of King Arthur…
They never made it.
Presumed sunk by the tsunami that ravaged the coastline of Japan, its crew were declared dead.
Seven years later, the shipwreck washed up on Cannon Beach, Oregon. By the time the US Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived to investigate, people in the nearby towns had started to die in terrifying and inexplicable ways.
Sam Reilly will need to discover what really happened on board the Hoshi Maru – and why all clues point to the Legend of King Arthur…
361 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2019
356 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Cartwright
73 books250 followersChristopher Cartwright writes spellbinding mysteries and suspense novels. Often with a backdrop of ocean adventure. Born in 1983, he has a background as a paramedic, and is an avid sailor and SCUBA diver.
He holds degrees in paramedics, nursing and emergency management.
Chris currently lives in Sydney with his wife and two children.
He holds degrees in paramedics, nursing and emergency management.
Chris currently lives in Sydney with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 21, 2019
Strange
This book took a lot from Dean Koontz, Watchers. The Golden retriever, the monster. Same experiment for military, dog can spell with scrabble game. They are connected to each other by DNA. Plus the rest was disjointed. Lot of history, felt like filler. Sorry it didn't even feel like part of the series. Almost as if someone other than Mr. Cartwright wrote it..
This book took a lot from Dean Koontz, Watchers. The Golden retriever, the monster. Same experiment for military, dog can spell with scrabble game. They are connected to each other by DNA. Plus the rest was disjointed. Lot of history, felt like filler. Sorry it didn't even feel like part of the series. Almost as if someone other than Mr. Cartwright wrote it..
January 15, 2022
I liked the book and would have given it 5 stars if not for the fact that one of my favorite books since I was a teenager has been Dean Koontz’s Watchers. Same exact premise, first published in 1987. I hate to think that Mr. Cartwright did this on purpose because I’ve been reading his Sam Reilly books from the beginning, but who knows. Having said all that, the book was an enjoyable read, but nowhere near the level of a Dean Koontz novel. If I weren’t comparing, it would get more stars. Since the book is too similar to ignore, then I don’t feel I have any choice but to compare.
June 21, 2023
Brief synopsis from the book cover:
On March 11, 2011, the Japanese fishing trawler, Hoshi Maru accidentally hauled up something deadly into its live-fish hold. The crew, having discovered their mistake, raced toward the harbor in the hope that they might survive.
They never made it.
Presumed sunk by the tsunami that ravaged the coastline of Japan, its crew were declared dead.
Seven years later, the shipwreck washed up on Cannon Beach, Oregon. By the time the US Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived to investigate, people in the nearby towns had started to die in terrifying and inexplicable ways.
Sam Reilly will need to discover what really happened on board the Hoshi Maru – and why all clues point to the Legend of King Arthur…
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Action and Adventure
Review:
This is book has everything a good action and adventure novel should have, plenty of suspense, a bit of mystery, a likeable hero who saves the day. On top of that it’s well written and nicely paced; things happen fast and situations change quickly. . The book is nicely written and the story flows well. The characters are interesting and their actions are well enough explained to fit the genre of the book. .Overall it’s entertaining and fun to read.
This is book sixteen in the Sam Reilly series. Most books have a proper ending so they can be read as a standalone. That is also the case with this book
.
On March 11, 2011, the Japanese fishing trawler, Hoshi Maru accidentally hauled up something deadly into its live-fish hold. The crew, having discovered their mistake, raced toward the harbor in the hope that they might survive.
They never made it.
Presumed sunk by the tsunami that ravaged the coastline of Japan, its crew were declared dead.
Seven years later, the shipwreck washed up on Cannon Beach, Oregon. By the time the US Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived to investigate, people in the nearby towns had started to die in terrifying and inexplicable ways.
Sam Reilly will need to discover what really happened on board the Hoshi Maru – and why all clues point to the Legend of King Arthur…
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Action and Adventure
Review:
This is book has everything a good action and adventure novel should have, plenty of suspense, a bit of mystery, a likeable hero who saves the day. On top of that it’s well written and nicely paced; things happen fast and situations change quickly. . The book is nicely written and the story flows well. The characters are interesting and their actions are well enough explained to fit the genre of the book. .Overall it’s entertaining and fun to read.
This is book sixteen in the Sam Reilly series. Most books have a proper ending so they can be read as a standalone. That is also the case with this book
.
January 28, 2025
Review of this book.
An interesting book. Full of action and drama. This tells you what can go wrong when you try to make a super soldier. The sheer terror of the monster that was created! As always, Sam explains the different terminology that he uses and why he is using it. He does not talk down to you, but makes sure that you can understand what he is doing and why. This book is the stuff that nightmares are made of. The action never lets up. You can forget eating and sleeping when reading this book. You will not want to put the book down until you are finished reading it.
An interesting book. Full of action and drama. This tells you what can go wrong when you try to make a super soldier. The sheer terror of the monster that was created! As always, Sam explains the different terminology that he uses and why he is using it. He does not talk down to you, but makes sure that you can understand what he is doing and why. This book is the stuff that nightmares are made of. The action never lets up. You can forget eating and sleeping when reading this book. You will not want to put the book down until you are finished reading it.
November 17, 2019
I feel I was fortunate that I received this book for free. I have never read any other books by this author and I probably will not ever pay for one. It is pretty far- fetched, attempting to mimic contrivances used more effectively by Dean Koontz, James Rollins snd similar authors. This was not a book i could dive into heart snd soul, but it was entertaining enough to keep me listening while I cooked, cleaned and generally multi-tasked. On a positive note, the language and style flowed well and intelligently.
August 29, 2024
It had its moments.
I appreciated the detailed descriptions of geography, and history, and scientific stuff, although I'm not sure they moved the story along. The book was chockfull of very handy coincidences and miraculous timing. Also, it is very nice to have lots of money and connections. Cranky me, who was reading the book, often cried, "Oh, please!" and snorted lots. Always happy to read books set in my home territory, though; and, as mentioned, I enjoyed the history and geography.
I appreciated the detailed descriptions of geography, and history, and scientific stuff, although I'm not sure they moved the story along. The book was chockfull of very handy coincidences and miraculous timing. Also, it is very nice to have lots of money and connections. Cranky me, who was reading the book, often cried, "Oh, please!" and snorted lots. Always happy to read books set in my home territory, though; and, as mentioned, I enjoyed the history and geography.
February 15, 2021
Until I read The Hunt for Excalibur, I had never read any of Christopher's books.
I have to admit it won't be the last. I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy the paranormal part, but it actually enhanced the story a lot! Lots of excitement. Edge of your seat tension. I kept wondering how in the world they would find the swords in time, etc. You'll have to read it to find out!! I highly recommend this book. I want to thank Christopher for having his books in Kindle Unlimited.
I have to admit it won't be the last. I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy the paranormal part, but it actually enhanced the story a lot! Lots of excitement. Edge of your seat tension. I kept wondering how in the world they would find the swords in time, etc. You'll have to read it to find out!! I highly recommend this book. I want to thank Christopher for having his books in Kindle Unlimited.
March 21, 2025
Fun to read
The characters of the series are known and the new ones fit in well. The jumps of logic are long and the situations are often hard to believe. But these books are meant to be entertaining and they are. Very extensive research into the many many aspect of history, weapons, boats, cars etc are interestingly woven. Good travel, holiday or weekend books to keep one away from e!electronics and tv.
The characters of the series are known and the new ones fit in well. The jumps of logic are long and the situations are often hard to believe. But these books are meant to be entertaining and they are. Very extensive research into the many many aspect of history, weapons, boats, cars etc are interestingly woven. Good travel, holiday or weekend books to keep one away from e!electronics and tv.
March 11, 2019
gripping reading
another 5 star adventure from Christopher, loved the plot of this story, couldn't put the book down. so glad Sam's got his new boat plus extras. loved the touch of romance, not enough to detract from the story though. can't wait for your next book Christopher, Keep them coming.
another 5 star adventure from Christopher, loved the plot of this story, couldn't put the book down. so glad Sam's got his new boat plus extras. loved the touch of romance, not enough to detract from the story though. can't wait for your next book Christopher, Keep them coming.
March 23, 2019
Genetic engineering gone wrong
This novel is believable and fantastic all at once. Sam Reilly and Tom Bower with the team complete the execution of an evil genetic chimera and save a golden retriever chimera at the same time. There is some romantic interest, terror, intrigue and mystery. A really good read.
This novel is believable and fantastic all at once. Sam Reilly and Tom Bower with the team complete the execution of an evil genetic chimera and save a golden retriever chimera at the same time. There is some romantic interest, terror, intrigue and mystery. A really good read.
May 22, 2019
Excellent adventure full of twists and suspense! Held my attention from beginning to end, even though this is the first I've read in the series. The publisher's blurb is pretty limited, but I don't do spoilers either. I only know that I really got into it!
David Gilmore is great at interpreting the story in narration.
I received the free audio copy in a giveaway. I win!
David Gilmore is great at interpreting the story in narration.
I received the free audio copy in a giveaway. I win!
Read
August 27, 2019The Hunt for Excalibur, my sixteenth read from author Christopher Cartwright & the sixteenth book in the highly entertaining Sam Reilly series. A well-written rollicking thriller with captivating & well-developed main characters, probably the best in the series to date. Reminds me of Dan Brown’s & James Rollin’s writing. Up next is Ghost Ship. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
February 7, 2020
Audible:Another excellent tale of our friend Sam Reilly and hid 'friends'.This time he's looking for the sword from the stone.A stray dog turns out to be more important thn first thought.David Gilmore was a terrific narrator. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review
May 19, 2020
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
This audio is back to his best with Sam on a hunt that not only involves the legend of King Arthur but also a dog who is not only mans best friend but Sam is convinced he can understand everything he says and answer him. This is exciting and Chris Cartwright at his best. Roll on book 17
This audio is back to his best with Sam on a hunt that not only involves the legend of King Arthur but also a dog who is not only mans best friend but Sam is convinced he can understand everything he says and answer him. This is exciting and Chris Cartwright at his best. Roll on book 17
February 25, 2023
A bit slower paced than some of his other adventures but still thoroughly enjoyable and an exceptional history lesson into Arthur's "real" (?) or mythical life. Action and adventure still abound with two mythical swords, nuclear waste, MI6 involvement and a US defense contract as well as a nuclear waste spill and, oh yeah, a super intelligent genetically enhanced Golden Retriever who is a love, as well as an also enhanced MI6 operative who's decidedly evil! Enjoy!
November 13, 2023
not as good as previous books
Great story writing, as usual, but whilst the previous books had an air of believability, this was just a little silly. I’ll give book 17 a try in a hope it doesn’t continue in this vein. I’d hate to have to drop the rest of what was a very good series up to now.
Great story writing, as usual, but whilst the previous books had an air of believability, this was just a little silly. I’ll give book 17 a try in a hope it doesn’t continue in this vein. I’d hate to have to drop the rest of what was a very good series up to now.
May 13, 2024
A sword in a stone
Another extremely cool Sam Reilly adventure! This one is actually more human than usual, and mixes history and legend…and the Master Builders… best of all, Sam now has a pet! A Golden Retriever named Caliburn.To find out what gives, you really need to read this book!
Another extremely cool Sam Reilly adventure! This one is actually more human than usual, and mixes history and legend…and the Master Builders… best of all, Sam now has a pet! A Golden Retriever named Caliburn.To find out what gives, you really need to read this book!
November 26, 2024
Christopher Cartwright has done it again. This Sam Reilly story keeps your interest as something is always happening. The blend of legend with the future was intriguing. It stimulates the imagination. I found it easy reading and enjoyable not wanting to put it down until the end. Could these things even be possible in the future, who knows.
March 19, 2019
Thrilling history abounds!
The author combines a fabled myth into a thrilling modern day weapon story. This story is quite imaginative and is filled with outstanding historical facts throughout. Great story!
The author combines a fabled myth into a thrilling modern day weapon story. This story is quite imaginative and is filled with outstanding historical facts throughout. Great story!
March 23, 2019
Fantastic action series
Love this series! I especially love the under-current/recurring stories about the Master Builders and the people with purple eyes. Can't wait for the next Sam Reilly book to arrive!!
Love this series! I especially love the under-current/recurring stories about the Master Builders and the people with purple eyes. Can't wait for the next Sam Reilly book to arrive!!
April 13, 2019
The hunt for excalubur
I've never disliked a Sam Reilly story. As usual, a great story from a top class author. I have never been a huge King Arthur fan and this story lacked Cartwrights usual attention to technological detail that I enjoyed previously. 4 stars rather than 5
I've never disliked a Sam Reilly story. As usual, a great story from a top class author. I have never been a huge King Arthur fan and this story lacked Cartwrights usual attention to technological detail that I enjoyed previously. 4 stars rather than 5
May 12, 2019
Not the typical Sam Reilly story. This one was a little too strange for me. Also the ending felt rushed. Hoping the next one is more a traditional book. There may be one thread related to the Master Builders origin. It is an interesting story worth reading just very different than previous books.
June 20, 2019
This is the first book of this series I’ve read. Got a free copy to leave an honest review. Good characters, great history, good action. The history was fairly well integrated into the story line. At times it felt like the book was dragging, maybe a bit too long.
July 26, 2019
An action packed Sam Reilly adventure.
I enjoyed reading this book. Lots of action. Reilly and his crew traveled a lot of countries to finally find the solution they were looking for. A good read.
I enjoyed reading this book. Lots of action. Reilly and his crew traveled a lot of countries to finally find the solution they were looking for. A good read.
December 1, 2019
Cool read
A story encompassing the myths of the ancient King Arthur, locations in Glastonbury and Jerusalem and finally bizarre experiments carried out by the military. Altogether it was an enjoyable book
A story encompassing the myths of the ancient King Arthur, locations in Glastonbury and Jerusalem and finally bizarre experiments carried out by the military. Altogether it was an enjoyable book
May 17, 2020
Adventure and action
Alternate view of King Arthur, James Bond type character working for government, sent in to clean up messes with little to know truthful information. Beautiful women fancy gadgets
Alternate view of King Arthur, James Bond type character working for government, sent in to clean up messes with little to know truthful information. Beautiful women fancy gadgets
June 27, 2020
Goo Thriller
A good Sam Reilly book that includes the expected action and adventure. Particularly liked the addition of Cliburn to the cast o characters. All in all good book that ended a little too fast.
A good Sam Reilly book that includes the expected action and adventure. Particularly liked the addition of Cliburn to the cast o characters. All in all good book that ended a little too fast.
February 10, 2021
I've read most of the Sam Reilly series. I enjoyed this one as much as the others. Just another way to escape out of my confines to enjoy the adventures of someone else. I've always loved the military connections and good morality of Sam and Tom.
February 2, 2022
Fast moving storyline keeps you guessing
Entertaining story about super soldiers that kept my interest. Adding the dog was a unique perspective along with the underlying thought of good and evil. Ready foe the next book in this series!
Entertaining story about super soldiers that kept my interest. Adding the dog was a unique perspective along with the underlying thought of good and evil. Ready foe the next book in this series!
April 1, 2022
Great science fiction fairy tale
Very enjoyable read on the lighter side. All over the place from the unbelievable fairy tale side of the fence of King Arthur/Excalibur to modern day realities. Entertaining and lighthearted tale with Sam Reilly…..
Wayne C
Very enjoyable read on the lighter side. All over the place from the unbelievable fairy tale side of the fence of King Arthur/Excalibur to modern day realities. Entertaining and lighthearted tale with Sam Reilly…..
Wayne C
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews